Pinocchio is set to appear on Stage 1 from Friday 24 November – Sunday 31 December 2023.
Based on the original 1883 novel by Italian author, Carlo Collodi, Mike Kenny (The Railway Children) has reimagined this much-loved classic family favourite for audiences in 2023. Working alongside composer and co-lyricist John Biddle (A Christmas Carol, Peter Pan), the show will include original music and songs that have become synonymous with Hull Truck Theatre’s Christmas celebrations.
Pinocchio will tell the story of hard-up lonely carpenter Gepetto who carves his very own puppet, getting more than he bargained for in the process. The magical Blue Fairy turns his beautiful wooden creation, Pinocchio, into something he always longed for, a child to call his own. Keen for Pinocchio to fit in and make friends, Gepetto sends them to school… but Pinocchio has other ideas! Meeting a whole host of shady characters on their travels, Pinocchio, with the help of Cricket, must try to be brave, truthful and selfless as they navigate the joys and dangers of the world, learning the hard way about consequences on their journey to becoming real.
Directed by Hull Truck Theatre’s artistic director Mark Babych, Pinocchio will take audiences on the adventure of a lifetime in this heart-warming and fantastical tale about coming-of-age, loyalty, hardship, redemption and unconditional love.
Mark Babych, Artistic Director at Hull Truck Theatre, said:
“We are so excited to be producing this thrilling new version of Pinocchio. Packed with our trademark blend of imaginative staging, spectacular set and costume designs, energetic dance routines, comedy and heart-touching moments, this spectacular action-packed tale of Pinocchio’s quest to become real reunites award-winning writer Mike Kenny with composer John Biddle to reimagine this timeless and beautiful story for all the family to enjoy at Christmas – let the magic begin!”
Mike Kenny is one of the country’s leading writers for theatre. He won an Olivier Award for his adaptation of The Railway Children, which was also presented as the 2021 Christmas Show at Hull Truck Theatre.
John Biddle returns to Hull Truck Theatre as composer and co-lyrist for Pinocchio in 2023. Projects as Composer/Sound Designer include A Christmas Carol 2022 (Hull Truck Theatre); Possible (National Theatre Wales); Dead Honest (winner British Podcast Award 2021) and Prince Charming’s Christmas Cracker, Peter Pan, Oliver Twist and Treasure Island (Hull Truck Theatre).
Pinocchio now on sale at a special Early Bird ticket price. Any ticket purchased before 31 August 2023 will receive £1.50 off. Group discounts are also available for group bookings of 8+. For more information, please visit hulltruck.co.uk or call 01482 323638.
A range of access performances are available throughout the duration of the run, including Hull Truck Theatre’s first ever Christmas baby-friendly performance (for babies under 18 months) – ideal for those who want to share a first festive experience with their families and friends.
Pinocchio
Friday 24 November – Sunday 31 December 2023
Tickets £32.00 – £10
Recommended for ages 7+
Box office information
Hull Truck Theatre, 50 Ferensway, Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU2 8LB